Barbara Ann Sandberg 1948-2026

Born Jan. 22, 1948, in Youngstown, Barb was a daughter of the late Edward Paul and Helen Louise Hightree Battison.

She is survived by her husband, John “Sandy” Sandberg, whom she married Oct. 2, 1971. Also surviving is her sister, Kathleen Louise Bradbury of Charleston, South Carolina.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Barbara graduated from Champion High School and was employed at Packard Electric Division of General Motors for 30 years, where she worked in various positions in numerous plants.

Barb had a deep love for nature and animals of every kind. She flourished being outdoors with the simple pleasures she found, whether tending her flower garden or checking out all the many species of birds and other wild animals that “wandered by.”

With her husband of 54 years, Barb enjoyed many vacation trips, including those to the Grand Canyon, Yosemite and Redwood national parks, and Napa Valley, as well as Caribbean cruises and weekends away to visit their many friends in Michigan and Pennsylvania. Her favorite trip was to Switzerland. As a member of Trumbull Country Club, Barb also joined Sandy or friends for an occasional lunch or dinner.

She was “Aunt Barb” to the children of her many extended families. A great cook, she also baked pies, cakes and pizzelles enjoyed by many at Christmas.

As an animal lover, Barb donated to different animal charities, especially the Animal Welfare League. She always decorated her home for all the seasonal holidays. Christmas was her favorite time.

During her last days she was gently cared for by the wonderful staff of Hospice of the Valley in Youngstown. They said when she passed, they saw a cardinal outside the window, meaning an angel had left. She will be sadly missed by those who really knew her.

A gathering of friends will take place from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, April 25, 2026, at the Carl W. Hall Funeral Home on Park Avenue, Warren, with interment and a graveside service to follow, in the Howland Township Cemetery.

(special notice)